“all trips will be free for customers who choose Metro after 8 p.m. on Saturday, Dec.31”

photo by andy ward

From WMATA:

“Are you planning to celebrate New Year’s Eve in the region? #YourMetro today announced Metrorail and Metrobus service will be extended until 2 a.m. on Sunday, Jan.1. Additionally, all trips will be free for customers who choose Metro after 8 p.m. on Saturday, Dec.31. 

“Traveling by train and bus is the safest way to celebrate New Year’s Eve and avoid drinking and driving in the region,” said General Manager and Chief Executive Officer Randy Clarke. “Eliminating costs and extending services are easy steps we can take to give people the power to choose Metro as their safe way to enjoy all the region has to offer.” 

To promote public safety in the region, Metro’s Board of Directors gave direction to the General Manager and Chief Executive Officer to provide free trips and extended hours this New Year’s Eve. 

“We want our customers to be safe as they celebrate the start of 2023. We hope customers will take advantage of this offer as we look to start 2023 with less accidents and fatalities on our roadways,” said Metro Board Chair Paul C. Smedberg. “Metro is a safe way to get around and offering free rides reminds our customers that Metro is the way to go.” 

“DC is open, people are excited to go out on New Year’s Eve, and now there will be a safe and free way to get to and from all the events that are happening across the city,” said Mayor Muriel Bowser. “There’s a lot to be grateful for this holiday season, and we are certainly grateful to have a safe, clean, and reliable public transportation system taking us into the New Year.” 

Customers choosing Metro will not be required to tap a SmarTrip® card on Metrobus and Metrorail after 8 p.m. on December 31. All normal fares and service hours will resume Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023, beginning at 4 a.m. for Metrobus and 7 a.m. Metrorail.”